PFAS — per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly called "forever chemicals" — have been detected in water systems across Arizona, with the most severe contamination near military installations. Tucson's water near Davis-Monthan Air Force Base tested at 56 parts per trillion (ppt) of PFOS — 14x above the EWG guideline of 4 ppt. The EPA finalized legally enforceable PFAS limits in 2024, and Arizona utilities are now working to come into compliance.
PFAS are called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment or in your body. They accumulate over a lifetime of exposure, and even low-level chronic exposure has been linked to cancer, thyroid disease, immune suppression, and reproductive issues.
What Are PFAS and Why Should You Care?
PFAS are a family of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals used since the 1950s in everything from nonstick cookware (Teflon) to firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and waterproof clothing. They're incredibly persistent — once in groundwater, they stay there essentially forever with current technology.
The health effects of PFAS exposure include:
- Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
- Thyroid hormone disruption
- Weakened immune response (including reduced vaccine effectiveness)
- Reproductive harm and developmental issues in children
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Liver damage
The EPA's 2024 rule set maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) at 4 ppt for PFOS and PFOA individually, with additional limits for other PFAS compounds. Water systems have until 2029 to come into full compliance.
Where in Arizona Is PFAS Contamination Worst?
Tucson — Davis-Monthan Air Force Base
The most well-documented PFAS contamination in Arizona. PFOS was detected at 56 ppt in wells near the base — 14x above the EWG guideline and well above the new EPA MCL. The contamination is linked to decades of AFFF use during fire training exercises. Tucson Water has shut down several affected wells and is investing in treatment infrastructure.
West Valley — Luke Air Force Base (Glendale/Goodyear)
Similar AFFF contamination has been found in groundwater near Luke AFB. The Department of Defense has conducted site investigations, and several monitoring wells have shown PFAS levels above the new MCLs. Affected communities include parts of Glendale, Goodyear, and Litchfield Park.
Phoenix Metro — Municipal Wells
Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, and other metro cities have detected low but measurable levels of PFAS in various wells. These tend to be lower than the military base hotspots but are still being monitored and, in some cases, taken offline for treatment.
Other Sources
PFAS contamination isn't limited to military bases. Airports, industrial facilities, landfills, and wastewater treatment plants are all potential sources. As testing improves and the EPA mandates broader monitoring, more detections are likely across Arizona.
What Arizona Utilities Are Doing About It
Arizona water utilities are responding to the 2024 EPA rule in several ways:
- Enhanced monitoring: All large public water systems now test for PFAS and report results
- Well shutdowns: The highest-contamination wells have been taken offline
- Blending strategies: Mixing water from high-PFAS and low-PFAS sources to reduce average levels
- Treatment installation: Granular activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange systems are being installed at affected well sites
- Military funding: The DOD has allocated funds for cleanup near military installations, though progress has been slow
Full compliance isn't required until 2029, so there's a transition period where levels in some areas may still exceed the new limits.
How to Remove PFAS from Your Drinking Water
If you're concerned about PFAS in your water — and given the evolving science, that's reasonable — here are your options:
Reverse Osmosis (Most Effective)
RO systems remove 90-99% of PFAS, including PFOS, PFOA, and shorter-chain variants. An under-sink RO unit is the most effective point-of-use solution. Cost: $300-800 installed.
Activated Carbon Filters (Good for PFOS/PFOA)
High-quality granular activated carbon (GAC) filters remove 60-90% of longer-chain PFAS like PFOS and PFOA. They're less effective on shorter-chain compounds. Look for NSF 53 certified filters. Many refrigerator and pitcher filters use activated carbon but may not have enough contact time to effectively reduce PFAS.
Ion Exchange Systems
Specialized anion exchange resins can target PFAS specifically. These are typically used in whole-house or point-of-entry applications. Effective but more expensive than RO for most residential use.
What Doesn't Work
Boiling water does NOT remove PFAS — it actually concentrates them. Standard pitcher filters (like basic Brita models) provide minimal PFAS reduction unless specifically certified for PFAS removal. Read more about what Brita actually does and doesn't filter.
Should You Get Your Water Tested for PFAS?
Standard home water tests don't typically include PFAS (the lab testing is expensive — $200-400 per sample). However, you can:
- Check your utility's Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) for published PFAS data
- Look up your zip code on the EWG Tap Water Database for known detections
- Request a specialized PFAS test through a certified lab if you live near a known contamination site
For general water quality concerns (hardness, TDS, chlorine, common contaminants), our free test kit gives you a solid baseline. If PFAS is your primary concern and you live near a military base, a specialized lab test is worth the investment.
The Bottom Line on PFAS in Arizona
PFAS contamination in Arizona is real and measurable, with the most serious exposure near military installations. The new EPA standards are a positive step, but compliance is years away. An under-sink reverse osmosis system is the simplest, most effective protection for your family's drinking water right now.
Book a free water test to understand your home's baseline water quality, and we'll help you choose the right level of filtration.
Want answers specific to your home?
A 15-minute in-home water test tells you exactly what's coming out of your taps — hardness, TDS, chlorine, and more.
Book Your Free Water TestFrequently Asked Questions
Does Phoenix water have PFAS?+
Yes. Low but measurable levels of PFAS have been detected in some Phoenix municipal wells. The levels are generally lower than near military bases but are being monitored. Phoenix is working toward compliance with the 2024 EPA PFAS limits (4 ppt for PFOS/PFOA) by 2029.
Does a Brita filter remove PFAS?+
Basic Brita pitchers using standard activated carbon provide minimal PFAS reduction. Brita's newer 'Elite' filters are NSF 53 certified and can reduce some PFAS. However, a reverse osmosis system (90-99% removal) is far more effective for PFAS specifically.
How long do PFAS stay in your body?+
PFAS half-lives in the human body range from about 2 to 8 years, depending on the specific compound. PFOS has a half-life of approximately 5 years. This means even after you stop exposure, it takes years for your body to eliminate half the accumulated amount.
Is bottled water free of PFAS?+
Not necessarily. Some bottled water brands have tested positive for PFAS. There's no federal requirement for bottled water companies to test for or disclose PFAS levels. A home reverse osmosis system gives you more control and is more cost-effective long term.
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